Since we have participated in these rides at Jester's Creek Bike Trail, I have becoming increasingly aware of my surroundings while cycling. It has dawned on my that even though this is a bike/walking path, Jester's Creek Trail is an extremely beautiful watershed.
As I pass over the creek, at a slow 8-10 m.p.h., I have stopped to gaze at the most intriguing wildlife. We have spotted a pair of mallards with their beautiful deep-green coloring and a hawk that was just as interested in watching us as we were with watching it. Just Monday (I try to ride when I'm not working.) I thought I saw smoke (but didn't see or smell anything)! I was anxious to disprove this notion, so our return trip was a little slower. What I thought was smoke was actually a light-colored outcropping of what appeared to be a sandy cliff. I could see it between the trees, as we watched a squirrel scamper its cliff-like incline. WOW!
That scene reminded me of my first solo trip on this trail. On that trip, I encountered a couple emerging from the woods who told me about a waterfall that used to be near this area (Apparently they used to visit it when they were high school students.) Seeing the cliff and remembering that tale, I am curious about what lies beyond the path. But, for now, I choose to stay with the man-made path that safely guides me through this habitat. I do not wish to disturb the creatures or the features that call this place home!
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2 comments:
Walking or riding are the appropriate pace for noticing what is around you. Getting out of the car lets us appreciate the human scale of things.
The next time we ride down that way we'll stop by to ride the trail so we can experience what you describe so well.
I couldn't agree with you more. Cars serve as just one more way to further isolate people from each other and the natural world around us.
By all means, please come to ride our trail. You will see that it has much potential for becoming a central hub for bike riding/walking in Clayton County.
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